MERSI Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation | Patient Information

Dear Friend,

It is with great enthusiasm and optimism that I introduce myself to you as the Director of Public Relations and Development of the Massachusetts Eye Research and Surgery Institution (MERSI) and the Ocular Immunology and Uveitis Foundation (OIUF). I bring to this work over 7 years of non-profit management experience, a Master’s degree in Philanthropy and Media and most importantly, a 27- year struggle with uveitis.

Like you, I am fortunate to be treated properly under Dr. Foster’s care for a potentially blinding eye disease. As you know it is Dr. Foster’s dedication to his life’s work of treating cornea and inflammatory diseases of the eye that has led to the creation of MERSI: a patient centered state-of- the-art medical facility, and his commitment to his patients that led to the formation of OIUF: A national non profit organization dedicated to improving the diagnosis and treatment and finding the causes and cures of uveitis and other ocular inflammatory diseases, increasing awareness of uveitis among health professionals and the public and supporting individuals and families affected by the disease.

I am motivated by our mission and it’s my goal in my new role to encourage you and your family through research and programs that offer support, education and inspiring events such as the upcoming OIUF Art show: Through Their Eyes on Saturday March 11th here at MERSI. This fundraiser will feature the work of Dr. Foster’s patients. I am enclosing OIUF’S new brochure that outlines our programs and sponsorship opportunities as well as the OID/Uveitis Support Group newsletter.

I also would like to take this occasion to inform you of the Katrina Emergency Tax relief Act of 2005, which creates a unique opportunity for charitable giving. The law only applies through December 31, 2005, and allows donors who make contributions to any public charity, such as OIUF, to deduct gifts totaling up to 100% of their adjusted gross Income of the year. For individuals who have searched for a method to transfer significant retirement plan assets effectively to charities this is a perfect opportunity, but is only offered during this limited period! Click for "How to Help"

I welcome the opportunity to answer any of your questions and encourage you to stop by my office the next time you visit MERSI. I can be reached by telephone at 617-494-1431 ext.112 or via e-mail OIUF@uveitis.org or ajustus@mersi.us. As we bring in the New Year, let us celebrate the start of OIUF and our bright future ahead.

Wishing you and your family a happy and healthy New Year!

Sincerely,

Alison H. Justus
Director of Public Relations and Development